China has approved some applications for general licenses to export rare earth–related items, the Ministry of Commerce said on Wednesday, marking progress in the implementation of its export control regime.

At a regular press briefing, ministry spokesperson He Yadong said that since China began enforcing export controls on certain rare earth–related items, regulators have carried out policy briefings with Chinese exporters to clarify requirements and compliance standards.

“With the accumulation of export and compliance experience, some Chinese exporters have preliminarily met the basic requirements for applying for general licenses,” He said.

According to He, authorities have now received and approved a number of general license applications submitted by Chinese exporters, though he did not disclose the names of the companies involved or the specific volumes covered.